We are appealing for information after a rat was found on Monday 12 June in the Tollcross area of Glasgow by a member of the public.
The white and light brown female rat was found abandoned in a plastic container next to some bins.
Scottish SPCA inspector, Sian Robertson, said: “We received a call from a local veterinary practice about a rat abandoned in a plastic box which had been found by a member of the public.
“We collected her from the veterinary practice after she was assessed due to a growth on her face. She is now safe in the care of one of our animal rescue and rehoming centres.
“We know times are tough for a lot of people at the moment but this is not the way to give up a pet if you can no longer care for them.
“Just this week we announced our plans to expand our Pet Aid service to include an initiative to help struggling owners with vet bills. The service has been created in partnership with several other organisations in response to a rise in people contacting our helpline seeking support due to financial problems.
“The human-animal bond is important, and nobody should have to give up their pet because they are unable to afford the cost of basic veterinary care.
“This would have been a very distressing experience for the animal and she was lucky to have been found when she was, especially in this hot weather in a plastic box.
“If anyone recognises this rat or is struggling to care for their pet, they can call our animal helpline in strict confidence on 03000 999 999 for help and advice.”
